Frances E. Figueroa, age 98, of Phoenix, Arizona passed away on Sunday, May 12, 2024. Frances was an inspiration to many and a maverick in every sense of the word. She was born in Michoacán de Ocampo, Mexico and came to the United States as a child, residing in Fort Dodge, IA, where she grew up, went to school and received her U.S. citizenship. She had a passion for education and a unparalleled desire for knowledge. She pursued an education in computer science and technology. In 1962 she moved to Phoenix, Arizona where she worked for Maricopa County and ran the entire county payroll for over 30 years.
Shortly after moving to Phoenix, she was introduced to her beloved husband Ralph Figueroa, a marriage and love story that lasted over 50 years. She was a devoted wife and mother; she loved her Catholic Church and was the president of the church's women's club for six years. She loved crafts, family outings and so much more. She treasured the simple things in life and enjoyed a good musical and was also a Phoenix Symphony season ticket holder. She was an intelligent little lady with a witty sense of humor and loved all things in nature. It was common to be at her home surrounded by plants, her dog, many hummingbird feeders and the smell of something wonderful cooking in the kitchen.
She will be missed by those who loved her, those she touched and those who got to know her. She was as an amazing little lady with an understanding heart, a glint in her eye and a beautiful smile. She was truly a beautiful soul.
Survived by her daughter Anna Stowe, stepson Raphael Figueroa, grandchildren Joel and Jennie Figueroa, great grandchild Anthony, her brother Gary Espinoza, in-laws Nelly and Jesus Villaverde.
Proceeded in death by her husband Ralph Figueroa, siblings: Dolores Leeper, Carmen Irvine, Ruby Martinez, and Rudy Espinoza. In-laws Anthony Figueroa, Charlie Figueroa, Mary Ellen Rios, Cleo Shepherd, Sally Velasquez, and Alice Ramirez.
A special thank you to Jaime Miller, for helping Mom through this journey all the way to the end. Your love and caring will never be forgotten.
Thank you to Hospice of the Valley especially Linda, Andrea, Norma Jean, Bill and Belinda. It was because of you that Mom was able to be at peace with dignity and grace in her last moments with us……we are forever grateful.
A visitation for Frances will be held Monday, May 20, 2024 from 4:00 PM at Chapel of the Chimes Mortuary, 7924 North 59th Ave, Glendale, Arizona 85301. A rosary will follow at 7pm. A funeral mass will occur Tuesday, May 21, 2024 from 11:30 AM at St Louis the King Catholic Church, 4331 W Maryland Ave, Glendale, Arizona. A graveside service will follow at 1:00 PM at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, 9925 W Thomas Rd, Avondale, Arizona.
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